There might not be a lot to it but a basic women’s white t-shirt is the ultimate wardrobe essential. Cute, comfortable and the perfect building block for a plethora of outfits, there’s no shortage of outfits a little white top can create.
From the perfect boyfriend tee to the mini look and everything in between, we’ve rounded up our favourite plain white tees that everyone should be wearing.
Why is the white t-shirt so popular?
Preppy, casual, boho or the retro look – whatever your fashion style is, a white t-shirt is a wardrobe must-have.
The simple design (literally just er, white) means it can be dressed up or down, with jeans, underneath strappy dresses, paired with a mini, tucked into tailored pants or tossed over boxers. Even paired with our favourite jelly shoes. It’s also a great layering piece that can be worn all year round.
How do you choose a white t-shirt?
This one comes down to personal preference. While it might seem like a basic item in your closet, choosing the perfect white t-shirt is a bit of an art. Ask yourself – do I want a rounded neckline? How long should the sleeves fall? Do I want it fitted or loose? What about the material? Is something see-through okay? There’s a lot more to it than just a t-shirt.
The best classic cotton white t-shirt
If you’re looking for something thick and sturdy, you can’t go wrong with Cos. This heavyweight t-shirt is made from 100% recycled cotton with a round neckline and short sleeves to beautifully skim the body and sit just below the belt.
Kiwi favourite Kowtow’s Classic Tee is the ultimate building block for your outfits. It’s made from a midweight cotton jersey with a ribbed crew neck, making the perfect everyday top. The brand’s recent shift to be completely plastic free also means all swing tags, labels and packaging is sans plastic.
We love that Country Road’s commitment to responsible farming practices has resulted in a versatile white tee that’s made with pure Aussie cotton. It’s a slimmer fit with a crew neckline, short sleeves and a super-soft finish in a crisp white.
The best baby t-shirt
Recently making the rounds on TikTok as THE perfect baby tee, Uniqlo’s version will set you back just $20. It’s made from a stretchy cotton and elastane blend to carefully hug your figure while giving you room to breathe. Sizes range from XXS to XXL.
Another beloved Kiwi brand, Maggie Marilyn has taken their staple t-shirt and shrunken it to create a mini version. Think heavyweight organic cotton, a form-fitting design, straight short sleeves and Maggie’s signature stitch detailing down the back.
Sitting perfectly at the hips, Aussie label St Angi has crafted the perfect baby tee that avoids all that awkward bunching that comes with tucking in a shirt. The classic crew neck look with its fitted shape and comfy fit doesn’t come cheap at $129.
The best oversized t-shirt
Crafted from a sturdy heavyweight cotton, this non-stretch and non-sheer oversized top is like wearing your boyfriend’s tee. The drop shoulder, wide neckline and boxy fit is perfect for throwing over a silk midi or barely-there shorts.
Dazie’s relaxed oversized tee was made for beach days and morning walks. The soft pure cotton jersey with its longline sleeves and comfortable crew neck is the ultimate pairing for an easy everyday t-shirt or even as a gym shirt.
At just $20, there’s a lot to love about this affordable oversized tee. It’s made from 100% cotton, features a round neckline and longer sleeves in a boxy cut for easy dressing to instantly complete an outfit.
The softest white t-shirt
Aptly named the ‘Base’ tee, this super-soft tee is made from 100% cotton with a slight structure to it so it won’t cling or fall but instead hold its shape. It’s got everything you want in a good t-shirt: a relaxed fit, short sleeves, crew neckline and available from sizes 6 through to 16.
It’s all in the name. Soft, smoothing and well, seamless, the Skims tee is figure-hugging and ultra light. Made from a blend of nylon and elastane, it’s great for lounging or as a base layer under button ups and cardigans.
Perfectly relaxed for effortless days, the Crew Tee is baggy without looking messy. The 100% cotton fabrication makes it soft to the touch and it’s a longer line for that little bit of extra coverage, too. Grab it in XXS through to 3XL.
Women’s Health may earn commission from the links on this page, but we only feature products we believe in.
